I’ve been using the Arlo Video Doorbell 2K alongside my Echo Show 5 and 8 for quite some time now, and overall, it’s been a fantastic experience. The integration with Alexa has made managing my doorbell notifications seamless and convenient. Here’s a quick rundown of how it all works for me:
Setup and Initial Impressions
- Installation: The process was straightforward, and the Arlo app made it easy to connect everything. The video quality from the doorbell is impressive, and the cloud recording feature has come in handy more than once.
- Alexa Integration: Pairing the doorbell with my Echo devices was seamless. The ability to view live feeds and recorded clips directly from Alexa is a huge plus.
Day-to-Day Use
- Answering the Door: Saying, “Alexa, answer the doorbell” works like a charm. It’s quick and eliminates the need to fumble with my phone.
- Closing the Doorbell: Hiding the doorbell after use is just as smooth. It’s a minor feature, but it adds to the overall convenience.
A Minor hiccup and How I Worked Around It
There was one small issue I encountered: when someone rings the doorbell, the chimes work perfectly, but when I try to ask Alexa to answer, it sometimes gives the “doorbell is not responding” message. After a bit of research, I realized this happens when the doorbell is actively recording video to the cloud or base station. While it’s not ideal, I’ve found that waiting a moment before trying again usually resolves the issue.
Additional Features I Love
- Silent Mode: This feature has been a lifesaver. It keeps my phone from buzzing constantly while still allowing me to monitor activity through the Arlo app.
- Motion Detection: The motion alerts are reliable and have given me peace of mind knowing I can keep an eye on my property even when I’m away.
Final Thoughts
Despite the occasional hiccup, I’m thoroughly impressed with how well the Arlo doorbell integrates with Alexa. It’s a testament to how modern smart home devices can work together to enhance our daily lives. I’d definitely recommend this setup to anyone looking for a reliable video doorbell solution!
Thanks to the Arlo and Alexa teams for creating such a seamless product. Here’s to many more trouble-free years of use! 